{"id":181799,"date":"2021-11-22T22:45:00","date_gmt":"2021-11-23T03:45:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/milesopedia.com\/news\/health-travel-vaccination-recommendations\/"},"modified":"2024-08-14T12:57:50","modified_gmt":"2024-08-14T16:57:50","slug":"health-travel-vaccination-recommendations","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/milesopedia.com\/en\/guide\/health-travel-vaccination-recommendations\/","title":{"rendered":"Your health and travel: vaccinations and other recommendations"},"content":{"rendered":"

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The pandemic persists, but although restrictive measures are in place, it is possible to travel.<\/p>\n

Being vaccinated to be allowed to travel is not a new concept. However, there are many other aspects of health that should not be forgotten!<\/p>\n

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A visit to the pharmacy<\/a> or a travel health clinic<\/a> should not be out of the ordinary for a regular traveller<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Since the epidemiological situation and recommendations differ from country to country, a meeting with a professional<\/strong> is suggested. Consider consulting between six and eight weeks prior to your departure<\/strong> to ensure that you have the specific immunities for your destination.<\/p>\n

Now, the pharmacist<\/strong> is able to advise and prescribe the necessary medications and vaccines.<\/p>\n

However, some vaccines are sometimes out of stock and are more often found in travel health clinics.<\/p>\n

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<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n<\/article>\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t<\/div>[\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_custom_heading el_id=”diseases_contracted_by_insect_bites” text=”Diseases contracted by insect bites” google_fonts=””][vc_column_text el_class=”checkmarks”]The best way to protect yourself is to prevent bites<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

So the first thing to do is to cover up and limit your exposure time, especially at sunset.<\/p>\n

The use of a mosquito net and a DEET-based<\/strong> insect repellent is also recommended.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_custom_heading el_id=”dengue_fever” text=”Dengue fever” font_container=”tag:h3|text_align:left” google_fonts=””][vc_column_text el_class=”checkmarks”]<\/p>\n

The only prevention is to avoid bites and there is no treatment.<\/p>\n

Most of the time, this fever does not cause any symptoms and goes away by itself<\/strong>. When there are symptoms, the main goal is to control them.<\/p>\n

The first infection is usually mild, but the second is often much more severe. Exposure to the disease does not confer any particular immunity to subsequent infections with other strains of the virus.<\/p>\n

[\/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”178598″ img_size=”large” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center” style=”vc_box_rounded”][vc_custom_heading el_id=”yellow_fever” text=”Yellow fever” font_container=”tag:h3|text_align:left” google_fonts=””][vc_column_text el_class=”checkmarks”]This fever is a disease found in tropical countries; the virus attacks mainly the liver and causes yellowing of the skin.<\/p>\n

The yellow fever vaccine is very effective<\/strong> against this very severe disease. Immunization is therefore recommended for travelers over 9 months of age in high-risk areas.[\/vc_column_text][vc_column_text el_class=”checkmarks”]In the past, full-dose<\/strong> vaccination provided 10 years of immunity. The scientific community has now agreed that protection is for life<\/strong> and that a booster dose is no longer required.<\/p>\n

If your yellow vaccination card shows an expiry date, there is no need to get another<\/strong> one.[\/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”177220″ img_size=”large” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center” style=”vc_box_rounded”][vc_column_text el_class=”checkmarks”]I mention the full dose because in recent years there has been a shortage of<\/strong> yellow fever vaccine.<\/p>\n

The vial was therefore split up for the immediate needs of the travellers. The partial dose provides immunity for one year only.[\/vc_column_text][vc_column_text el_class=”checkmarks”]Some countries require proof of vaccination<\/strong> if you have stayed, or even just had a stopover, in a risk area.<\/p>\n

The areas at risk are both rural and urban in many African and South American countries.[\/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”177222″ img_size=”large” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center” style=”vc_box_rounded”][vc_custom_heading el_id=”malaria” text=”Malaria” font_container=”tag:h3|text_align:left” google_fonts=””][vc_column_text el_class=”checkmarks”]Malaria is a potentially fatal<\/strong> infection if not treated promptly. This infection is mainly transmitted in tropical, rural and low altitude areas.<\/p>\n

This disease can have serious consequences, as the malaria parasite clings to the blood vessels. This can lead to anemia, hypoglycemia and brain problems.<\/p>\n

If left untreated, malaria can lead to coma, long-term damage and death.[\/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”177224″ img_size=”large” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center” style=”vc_box_rounded”][vc_column_text el_class=”checkmarks”]<\/p>\n

Preventive pills can cause unwanted side effects<\/strong>. In addition, they do not guarantee protection against the disease. These medications help to alleviate the symptoms and get rid of the parasites.<\/p>\n

Also, even if you take these tablets as a prophylaxis, you should still consult a doctor<\/strong> to rule out malaria in case of fever.<\/p>\n

[\/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”178600″ img_size=”large” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center” style=”vc_box_rounded”][vc_column_text el_class=”checkmarks”]Finally, depending on the region, malaria parasites may be resistant<\/strong> to one type of drug more than another. A professional will be able to advise you and prescribe what is necessary in your situation.[\/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading el_id=”japanese_encephalitis” text=”Japanese encephalitis” font_container=”tag:h3|text_align:left” google_fonts=””][vc_column_text el_class=”checkmarks”]This disease is very common in Asia, but it is generally harmless<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

In rare cases, it can cause encephalitis (swelling of the brain) which will result in fever, headache, nausea, confusion, etc.<\/p>\n

A vaccine is available for travel to a high-risk area for more than four weeks.[\/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading el_id=”lyme_disease” text=”Lyme disease” font_container=”tag:h3|text_align:left” google_fonts=””][vc_column_text el_class=”checkmarks”]Transmitted by an infected tick, this disease is treated with antibiotics.<\/p>\n

If left untreated, the infection can affect the joints, heart and nervous system.[\/vc_column_text]

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<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t<\/div>[\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_custom_heading el_id=”rabies” text=”Rabies” google_fonts=””][vc_column_text el_class=”checkmarks”]This acute infection is transmitted through the saliva of infected animals following a bite<\/strong>. This virus attacks the nervous system and is usually fatal if left untreated.<\/p>\n

All mammals can spread rabies, but the main culprits are dogs, cats, bats, raccoons and skunks.[\/vc_column_text][vc_column_text el_class=”checkmarks”]A vaccine is available, but several doses<\/strong> must be received, so the immunization schedule must be planned.<\/p>\n

In case of a risky bite, a vaccinated person still needs additional antibodies<\/strong>. The latter are only available in large cities<\/strong>.[\/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”177261″ img_size=”large” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center” style=”vc_box_rounded”][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_custom_heading el_id=”pregnant_women” text=”Pregnant women” google_fonts=””][vc_column_text el_class=”checkmarks”]Babymoons<\/em> are quite popular; what better way to have a “last” couple’s trip before the arrival of the baby?[\/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading el_id=”best_time_to_travel” text=”Best time to travel” font_container=”tag:h3|text_align:left” google_fonts=””][vc_column_text el_class=”checkmarks”]<\/p>\n

First of all, check with the airlines<\/strong>, as they have different policies regarding women who are expecting a baby.<\/p>\n

Therefore, they have the right to ask for written confirmation from the doctor that the pregnancy is low risk.<\/p>\n

For most, it is possible to board a flight up to 32 weeks<\/strong> of pregnancy.<\/p>\n

[\/vc_column_text][vc_column_text el_class=”checkmarks”]The best time to travel pregnant is during the second trimester between 18 and 24 weeks<\/strong>. Within this window, the risk of complications and preterm births is lower.[\/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”178594″ img_size=”large” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center” style=”vc_box_rounded”][vc_custom_heading el_id=”insurance_particularities” text=”Insurance particularities” font_container=”tag:h3|text_align:left” google_fonts=””][vc_column_text el_class=”checkmarks”]For emergency medical insurance, companies generally offer coverage up to 30-32 weeks<\/strong> gestation.[\/vc_column_text][vc_column_text el_class=”checkmarks”]However, it is very important to note that in the case of an early delivery abroad, the newborn child may not be insured<\/strong>. Details vary from company to company, so it is imperative to check your contract<\/strong> before you leave.[\/vc_column_text][vc_column_text el_class=”checkmarks”]For example, for the National Bank’s World Elite Mastercard®<\/sup><\/a> the definition of a dependent child is:[\/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]<\/p>\n

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a child of the holder<\/em>, or of the holder’s spouse<\/em>, who is over 30 days<\/strong> old<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

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<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t<\/div>[vc_custom_heading el_id=”zika” text=”Zika” font_container=”tag:h3|text_align:left” google_fonts=””][vc_column_text]Countries at risk of the Zika virus should also be avoided by pregnant women as well as those who wish to become pregnant.<\/p>\n

The father should also refrain from visiting these places until six months before conception.[\/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”177234″ img_size=”large” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center” style=”vc_box_rounded”][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_custom_heading el_id=”water_and_food” text=”Water and food” google_fonts=””][vc_column_text el_class=”checkmarks”]In some countries, caution is required, especially when tap water is not drinkable<\/strong>. When this is the case, ice should also be avoided<\/strong> as it could come from tap water.<\/p>\n

In addition, it is often forgotten, but fruits and vegetables are mostly washed with this water. So try to avoid fresh salads and fruits that you can’t peel <\/strong>. Then, brush your teeth with bottled water.[\/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”178596″ img_size=”large” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center” style=”vc_box_rounded”][vc_column_text el_class=”checkmarks”]On the food side, dairy products from some countries are not pasteurized<\/strong> and can cause listeriosis infections<\/strong>. In the case of pregnant women, these can be fatal to the baby.[\/vc_column_text][vc_column_text el_class=”checkmarks”]When it comes to raw food, there is no need to worry if it is very fresh. For example, in Japan, the standards of raw fish preparation are very high unlike in other places.[\/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading el_id=”traveler_s_diarrhea” text=”Traveler’s diarrhea” font_container=”tag:h3|text_align:left” google_fonts=””][vc_column_text el_class=”checkmarks”]<\/p>\n

The famous “tourista<\/strong>” is very common and can be caught regardless of the destination. It can be caused by bacteria, viruses or by eating contaminated food and water.<\/p>\n

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The most important treatment is rehydration<\/strong>. So drink plenty of water and take electrolytes to speed up recovery.<\/p>\n

Powdered electrolyte<\/strong> sachets are available in pharmacies. Otherwise, drinks like Gatorade<\/em> can help.<\/p>\n

The oral vaccine Dukoral<\/strong> exists, but it is only effective against cholera and enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli diarrhea.<\/p>\n

[\/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”178604″ img_size=”large” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center” style=”vc_box_rounded”][vc_custom_heading el_id=”hepatitis_a” text=”Hepatitis A” font_container=”tag:h3|text_align:left” google_fonts=””][vc_column_text el_class=”checkmarks”]The hepatitis A vaccine is recommended for all travellers<\/strong>. This disease is often related to unsanitary conditions.<\/p>\n

Contamination is oral, mostly through food or ice<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

Immunization against hepatitis A is basic protection and is usually combined with hepatitis B (transmitted through body fluids).[\/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading el_id=”typhoid_fever” text=”Typhoid fever” font_container=”tag:h3|text_align:left” google_fonts=””][vc_column_text el_class=”checkmarks”]This bacterial infection is transmitted through contact with the stool of a contaminated person or animal. It is more prevalent where hygiene is inadequate or where hand washing is less frequent.<\/p>\n

This disease can be fatal without treatment. A vaccine is also available for travellers to higher risk areas.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_custom_heading el_id=”stays_in_high_altitude” text=”Stays in high altitude” google_fonts=””][vc_column_text el_class=”checkmarks”]When travelling at high altitudes, it is important to allow adequate time for acclimatization<\/strong> and not to make too much physical effort.[\/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading el_id=”elevation” text=”Elevation” font_container=”tag:h3|text_align:left” google_fonts=””][vc_column_text]Health problems at altitude are said to occur when the altitude exceeds 2,500 metres<\/strong>. The higher you go, the more oxygen is scarce, which poses a risk.<\/p>\n

An altitude between 2,000 and 3,500 metres is moderate, whereas it is very high between 3,500 and 5,500 metres<\/strong>. A human being cannot survive at more than 5,500 meters for a long period of time.[\/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”177256″ img_size=”large” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center” style=”vc_box_rounded”][vc_custom_heading el_id=”acute_mountain_sickness” text=”Acute mountain sickness” font_container=”tag:h3|text_align:left” google_fonts=””][vc_column_text]<\/p>\n

When the body is starved for oxygen, serious complications can occur. For example, edema (pulmonary and cerebral) and hypoxia (inadequate oxygen supply).<\/p>\n

Learning how to recognize the symptoms<\/strong> is also very important. Cerebral oedema<\/strong> is particularly manifested by an acute change in behaviour<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

[\/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]Other factors to consider are the decrease in temperature and the increase in UV radiation.<\/p>\n

Although there is no scientific evidence, many professionals advise against high-altitude travel for children under 18 months.[\/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”177252″ img_size=”large” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center” style=”vc_box_rounded”][vc_custom_heading el_id=”the_destinations” text=”The destinations” font_container=”tag:h3|text_align:left” google_fonts=””][vc_column_text]The main tourist destinations that can cause acute mountain sickness are:[\/vc_column_text][vc_column_text el_class=”checkmarks”]<\/p>\n